Chick-fil-A prez: We support ‘Biblical families’

Chick-fil-A president Dan Cathy voiced his support for “Biblical families” in one of his first interviews since his earlier comments caused controversy regarding gay marriage.

Cathy told Atlanta TV station WXIA in an interview released on Oct. 3 that families are important to “those of us who are concerned about being able to hang on to our heritage.”

He added “we support Biblical families, and they’ve always been a part of that.”

Cathy made the comments over the weekend at an event at his family’s Georgia ranch.

Cathy kicked up a storm of protest this summer with comments opposing same-sex marriage and boasting about his family company’s financial support of Christian-right, anti-gay groups.

Opponents of gay marriage lined up to buy Chick-fil-A sandwiches on an “appreciation day” and opponents countered with same-sex kiss-ins.

A statement posted on the company’s website on Oct. 3 said, “Chick-fil-A is a family-owned and family-led company dedicated to serving the communities in which we operate. From the day Truett Cathy started the company, he began applying biblically-based principles to managing his business.

“For example, we believe that we are stronger because of such principles as closing on Sundays, going the extra mile in service, treating others as we want to be treated, and devoting a percentage of profits back to our communities. Those same principles have been applied throughout the history of Chick-fil-A and still apply today.

“The Chick-fil-A culture and 66-year service tradition in our locally owned and operated restaurants is to treat every person with honor, dignity and respect – regardless of their beliefs, race, creed, sexual orientation or gender. We are a restaurant company focused on food, service and hospitality; our intent is not to engage in political or social debates.”